For its entry to this year’s Architecture biennale in Venice, citizens of Tirana lent their doors – a symbol of the country’s hope that the EU will open its doors to Albania. I spoke to Tirana’s mayor, the fireball Erion Veliaj, about his plans for the city and the role he sees for contemporary architecture in making the city more liveable.

‘Places of Hope’ is an exhibition in the Fries Museum in Leeuwarden as part of the city’s role als cultural capital this year. Curators Maarten Hajer and Michiel van Iersel offer us an optimistic look at the future. For sure there are many problems in the world, but there are also lots of inspired people who have come up with innovative solutions. ‘Sun for everyone!’